When it comes to pasta, there are countless options to choose from. However, one shape stands out for its unique and versatile nature: farfalle. These bow-tie shaped noodles can add a touch of elegance to any dish, from creamy sauces to light and zesty flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, farfalle is the perfect choice.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious farfalle recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Farfalle and Pesto Farfalle with Roasted Vegetables, to more adventurous options like Bacon and Pea Farfalle in White Wine Sauce and Farfalle with Smoked Salmon and Dill, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So let’s get started and see what delicious farfalle creations we can whip up!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Farfalle
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a perfect blend of flavors, with the sweetness of garlic and parmesan cheese complementing the savory farfalle noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with creamy sauce and toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Farfalle
Brighten up your pasta night with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with the tomato-spinach mixture.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Farfalle with Shrimp
This recipe combines the warmth of butter and garlic with the brightness of lemon and the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a bed of farfalle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice and shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and shrimp mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Farfalle with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
5. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with roasted vegetables and pesto sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Farfalle Alfredo with Chicken and Mushrooms
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and a velvety Alfredo sauce with farfalle (bow-tie) pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and mushrooms in butter until cooked through. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to simmer over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Farfalle
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this spicy and savory farfalle dish, inspired by the classic Arrabbiata sauce. This quick-cooking pasta recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon arrabbiata sauce mix
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, arrabbiata sauce mix, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with the tomato sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Farfalle Carbonara with Pancetta
A rich and satisfying Italian classic, this recipe combines the tender curves of farfalle pasta with the savory goodness of pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) farfalle pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the eggs by slowly pouring in the reserved pasta cooking water, whisking constantly.
4. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Add pancetta, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the pasta. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Farfalle with Olives and Feta
A classic Italian dish gets a Mediterranean twist, combining the flavors of olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with olive mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Farfalle Primavera with Spring Vegetables
Celebrate the season’s bounty with this vibrant and flavorful springtime pasta dish, featuring tender farfalle tossed with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, snap peas, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture. Toss with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Farfalle with Fresh Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a delicate farfalle pasta. A simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet and toss with tomato mixture until well combined.
5. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and serve immediately. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Farfalle with Sausage and Peppers
Savory Farfalle with Sausage and Peppers Recipe
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines tender farfalle pasta, flavorful sausage, and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 ounces farfalle pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook farfalle according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked farfalle with the sausage and vegetable mixture.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Broccoli Farfalle
Roasted Garlic and Broccoli Farfalle: A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the crunch of steamed broccoli, all wrapped up in a delicious farfalle shape.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with 2 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a separate pan, steam broccoli florets with 2 tbsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt until tender.
5. Combine cooked farfalle pasta, roasted garlic, and steamed broccoli in a large serving bowl.
6. Add reserved pasta water if the dish seems dry. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Farfalle with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this comforting and creamy pasta dish. Farfalle’s gentle curves perfectly capture the rich, velvety texture of pumpkin sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add pumpkin, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until pumpkin is tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked farfalle with the pumpkin sauce. Toss to coat pasta evenly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon and Pea Farfalle in White Wine Sauce
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the smokiness of bacon, all wrapped up in a rich white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cook until heated through.
7. Combine the cooked pasta, bacon, garlic, and peas into the skillet. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Farfalle with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant Farfalle with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of truffle oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with mushroom mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Farfalle Caprese with Balsamic Glaze
This Farfalle Caprese with Balsamic Glaze recipe is a creative twist on the traditional Italian salad, adding al dente pasta and a sweet-and-tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and flavorful summer meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add tomato slices and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened to a glaze-like consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
4. To assemble the dish, place cooked pasta on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Farfalle with Butternut Squash and Sage
This comforting pasta dish combines the warmth of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of sage, all wrapped up in a delicate farfalle package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) farfalle
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs/1kg), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted squash, chopped sage, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked farfalle and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Farfalle with Smoked Salmon and Dill
A light and refreshing pasta dish that combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add flaked smoked salmon to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in chopped fresh dill and cooked pasta. If using, add Parmesan cheese and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Farfalle with Spinach and Ricotta
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender farfalle pasta, wilted spinach, and a rich ricotta sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
4. Add cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet with wilted spinach. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Combine ricotta mixture with pasta and spinach. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Farfalle with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the simplicity of farfalle pasta with the rich flavors of roasted red pepper sauce, creating a delightful and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Peel the peppers and blend with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor.
4. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Toss cooked pasta with roasted red pepper sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 delicious farfalle recipes! From classic combinations like creamy garlic parmesan and sun-dried tomato and spinach, to seafood-inspired dishes like lemon butter shrimp and pesto roasted vegetables, there’s a recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, this collection of farfalle recipes is sure to please.
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